As we put a difficult 2020 behind us and enter a new year, it’s time for small business owners to take stock of where they are, what issues they still face and to make plans to move forward, explains Margaret Hearty, Director of Business Services at InterTradeIreland, as she discusses the top New Year's resolutions for business success this coming year.

Whether it is dealing with Brexit, being more innovative, raising finance or looking to new markets, InterTradeIreland has a wide range of supports available to help your business get back on track and look to the future. 

The new EU/UK trade deal means Northern Ireland will stay within the EU single market and adhere to EU custom rules, meaning no customs paperwork for cross-border traders. The UK however, will no longer be following rules on product standards – so businesses will need to get used to new checks. If you’re unsure what actions you need to take, our Brexit team has all the key information and advice you will need to know about the new trading relationship. We also offer funding through our Brexit Voucher.

The lingering impact of Covid-19 is still being felt by many businesses. InterTradeIreland's Emergency Business Solutions programme offers funding to the value of £2,000/€2,250  to help cross-border firms address key business challenges related to Covid-19 such as implementing Health and Safety measures, carrying out staff training, help to diversify to other product offerings as well as deal with HR and legal issues.

InterTradeIreland and Northern Ireland Water are teaming up again to virtually deliver the very popular Meet the Buyer event on 24 March. 
With a staggering £124+million worth of NI Water contracts due to be tendered in 2021, this event is your opportunity to make game-changing connections with key NI Water budget holders and sub-contractors. 

Registrations will open on Tuesday 23 February so for now, keep this date in your diary!

This year InterTradeIreland’s Venture Capital Conference celebrates its 20th year as it takes place virtually for the first time in history. The theme for this year's event is 'What can we do to increase availability of Seed Capital for Start-ups on the island of Ireland?

Get up-to-date on the current investment scene on the island of Ireland; learn the fundamentals of venture capital investment from industry experts and connect with the island’s active investors and other like-minded entrepreneurs all from the comfort of your own home or office.